At least 15 police officers lost their lives after terrorists launched a devastating suicide attack on the Fateh Khel police post in Bannu late Saturday night. This incident marks one of the deadliest assaults on security forces in recent months.
The attackers drove a vehicle packed with explosives into the police checkpoint, causing a massive explosion that severely damaged the site. Rescue teams arrived promptly and conducted search operations throughout the night. Authorities confirmed that three personnel were rescued alive from the rubble and immediately taken for medical care.
Deputy Inspector General (DIG) of Bannu Region, Sajjad Khan, visited the District Headquarters Hospital to check on the injured officers and meet with the families affected by the tragedy. Addressing the media, he emphasized that despite the heavy loss, the morale of the Bannu Police remains resolute.
He stated, “Terrorists will never achieve their malicious goals,” and assured that law enforcement agencies will persist with their operations until those responsible are apprehended. The DIG further declared that this attack would be the militants’ final cowardly act and pledged the complete eradication of terrorism from the area.
The attack was strongly condemned by Khyber Pakhtunkhwa Chief Minister Muhammad Sohail Afridi, who expressed profound sorrow over the fatalities and instructed authorities to ensure the best medical treatment for the wounded. He remarked, “The fight against terrorism is not only Khyber Pakhtunkhwa’s struggle but that of the entire nation.” He also lauded the sacrifices of KP Police in combating militancy and vowed that the government would honor the martyrs’ sacrifices by continuing the fight.
Security forces have sealed off the vicinity as investigations into the incident proceed. Search operations remain active to identify and apprehend those involved in the attack.
